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Photosynthetic Parameters Show Specific Responses to Essential Mineral Deficiencies
Miho Ohnishi1,2, Riu Furutani1,2, Takayuki Sohtome2,3
1Department of Applied Biological Science, Graduate School for Agricultural Science, Kobe University, 1-1 Rokkodai, Nada, Kobe 657-8501, Japan.
Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 2, 2021
Summary
Plant mineral deficiencies impact photosynthesis. Specific changes in photosystem I (PSI) and photosystem II (PSII) parameters can diagnose nutrient deficiencies in sunflowers.
Area of Science:
- Plant Physiology
- Photosynthesis Research
- Nutrient Management
Background:
- Plants regulate reactive oxygen species (ROS) production by oxidizing photosystem I (PSI) reaction center chlorophyll (P700) when CO2 assimilation efficiency declines.
- Essential mineral deficiencies disrupt plant physiological processes, including photosynthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how specific mineral deficiencies affect photosystem I (PSI) and photosystem II (PSII) parameters in sunflower leaves.
- To determine if distinct photosynthetic responses can diagnose individual mineral deficiencies.
Main Methods:
- Hydroponic culture of sunflowers with controlled deficiencies of essential minerals (N, P, Mn, Mg, S, Zn, K, Fe, Ca, B, Mo).
- Analysis of PSI and PSII parameters: P700 redox states [Y(I), Y(NA), Y(ND)], PSII relative electron flux [Y(II)], QA reduction state (1 - qL), and non-photochemical quenching (NPQ).
Main Results:
- Mineral deficiencies of N, P, Mn, Mg, S, and Zn decreased Y(II) and increased oxidized P700 [Y(ND)].
- Deficiencies in K, Fe, Ca, B, and Mo decreased Y(II) without a significant increase in Y(ND).
- Specific photosynthetic parameter responses varied distinctly with each mineral deficiency during photosynthesis induction.
Conclusions:
- Photosynthetic parameters, particularly PSI and PSII responses, provide a diagnostic tool for identifying specific essential mineral deficiencies in sunflowers.
- Understanding these specific responses aids in targeted nutrient management strategies for crop health and productivity.
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